Cold & cough10 min
Ghee nasya and a warm face compress for sinus congestion
Pressure around the eyes and forehead, a blocked nose and a heavy head — sinus congestion is miserable. Two drops of warm ghee in each nostril (nasya) and a warm compress over the sinuses are gentle Ayurvedic comforts.
The Ayurvedic view
Ayurveda considers the nose the gateway to the head, and nasya — putting a few drops of oil or ghee into the nostrils — is part of its classical daily routine. For stuffy, dry, irritated nasal passages, plain warm ghee is the simplest option. Congestion itself is seen as kapha accumulating in the head, and warmth helps it loosen and drain.
Ingredients
- ½ teaspoon pure cow's ghee
- A clean dropper
- A small towel and a bowl of hot water
How to prepare
- Melt the ghee by placing its container in warm water until just liquid and lukewarm.
- Dip the towel in hot water, wring it out well and check the temperature on your wrist.
How to use
- Lie on your back with the head tilted slightly back. Put 2 drops of warm ghee in each nostril and sniff gently. Rest for a minute.
- Place the warm towel over the forehead, nose and cheeks for 5 minutes; rewarm as needed.
- Do nasya once a day, ideally in the morning after bathing and not immediately after meals.
Helpful habits
- Steam inhalation and staying well hydrated help mucus drain.
- Sleep with your head slightly raised.
- Avoid cold, heavy, dairy-rich meals at night while congested.
Precautions
- Don't do nasya during a fever, right after eating, in pregnancy without advice, or for young children.
- Stop if it causes burning or sneezing fits.
- See a doctor for congestion lasting over 10 days, high fever, severe facial pain or swelling, swelling around the eyes, blurred vision, or thick coloured discharge with worsening symptoms.
